British Folk Art

Frequently neglected in the story of art in Britain, folk art is finally getting some recognition with this major exhibition at Tate Britain. Looking at the boundaries between art and artefact and challenging our notions about ‘high art’, the show will include some surprising examples – a rustic leather Toby jug, a brightly coloured ship’s figurehead, a thatched figure of King Alfred, plus maritime embroidery and shop signs. Embroiderer Mary Linwood and painters George Smart and Alfred Wallis are among those who emerge as prominent figures.